Dye likely to stick with White Sox

Tuesday

Jul 31, 2007 at 12:01 AMJul 31, 2007 at 11:36 AM

It’s even possible he could end up signing a contract extension before all is said and done, since it’s believed the Sox may have casually tested the waters to gauge what it would take for Dye - who’s in the final year of his deal - to return after this year.

By Nathaniel Whalen

Though the rumors were intensifying, it seemed more likely Monday night that Jermaine Dye would stick with the White Sox than get traded before today’s 3 p.m. non-waiver deadline.

It’s even possible he could end up signing a contract extension before all is said and done, since it’s believed the Sox may have casually tested the waters to gauge what it would take for Dye - who’s in the final year of his deal - to return after this year.

Dye’s agent, Bob Bry, declined to comment, but the right fielder has made it clear he wants to stay with the Sox.

“It’s always been my first choice,” Dye said Wednesday. “I like it here. I won a championship here. Who wants to leave a place where they’re comfortable and happy and enjoy it? Stadium is great and the fans are great. City is great. Why would you want to leave?”

It’s unlikely the two sides would reach an agreement in the near future, since Dye’s stock will keep rising if he keeps hitting. But there is a chance the foundation has been laid for future discussions.

As for his being traded by today, Dye has a limited no-trade clause. According to reports and a source, there was a near deal last week that would have sent him to Boston, but it fell through.

The sticking point was probably that Dye had no assurances he would play regularly for Boston, a must for Dye if he is to waive the no-trade clause. If he is traded and does not play regularly elsewhere, his market value as a free agent would be adversely affected.

As of Monday night, it was believed Dye’s camp had not been approached again about waiving the no-trade clause, meaning a deal was not imminent.

The Boston Globe reported on its Web site that Boston had offered Wily Mo Pena - whom the Sox would then likely trade elsewhere since he would be an ill fit for their outfield plans - but the South Siders were asking for either Manny Delcarmen or Justin Masterson, and Boston balked at including either pitcher.

Anaheim and the Cubs also are believed to be strong suitors for Dye. Considering their locations - Anaheim isn’t too far from Dye’s Arizona home - Dye might be willing to waive his no-trade clause for either.